On Sat, 08 May 2004 20:32:13 +0000, JG Wall wrote:

I am looking at an 1989 Peterborough Constellation 19.5' Cuddy with a 185 hp 4.3
L Merc I/O as my first used boat. Seems well maintained and in great condition.
If I decide to go with this boat, I will certainly have a mechanic at the local
marina do an inspection - however my question is, with 726 hours on the engine,
is that a lot?? And how many hours from now on average can I expect to need some
major repairs/maintenance. Carburator and outdrive are new.

Under 800 is not a lot of hrs for that engine. We have the same (non-marinized)
engine in our van, and with 225,000Kms, barely broken in.

Have the compression checked, look for water in oil, blue or white smoke when
running, etc. If this checks out, all should be well. At most you may have to
replace manifolds, etc., especially if it's "raw-water cooled".

Sounds like a sweet boat!

Lloyd Sumpter
"Far Cove" Catalina 36